Why Leeds?
Leeds has the oldest running commercial railway in the world
Established in 1758, the Middleton Railway holds the distinction of being the world's oldest continuously working railway. It was originally built to transport coal from the Middleton Colliery to the thriving markets of Leeds.
Step into Leeds'fascinating history, filled with the magic and splendor of a bygone era. Explore the industrial past, where the heritage of steam and coal comes alive with every chuff and whistle.
CAFÉS and Tea Rooms
My favourite cafés and Tea rooms in Leeds
Coffee on the Crescent
Coffee on the Crescent is an independent café known for homemade brownies, blondies, cakes, speciality coffee, and generously filled sandwiches. I especially enjoy their wide range of sweet treats and the owner’s passion for coffee, from carefully selected beans to occasional coffee workshops.
Address:
2 The Crescent, Hyde Park, Leeds LS6 2NW
Betty's Café Tea Rooms
Betty's Café Tea Rooms is one of Leeds’ most iconic destinations for traditional English afternoon tea, offering handmade cakes, macarons, and premium tea. I would highly recommend trying the classic three-tier stand, with every layer beautifully presented and the warm service making the experience feel extra special.
Address:
32 The Grv, Ilkley LS29 9EE
MADE
MADE is a speciality matcha café focused on authentic Japanese matcha drinks, desserts, and traditional preparation methods. What stands out to me is their passion for educating customers about the real benefits of matcha, alongside hand-whisked drinks, matcha ice cream, and a striking green storefront.
Address:
2 165 Lower Briggate, Leeds LS1 6LY
Nova Bakehouse
Nova Bakehouse is an award-recognised artisan bakery known for creative pastries, cakes, and handmade preserves. Selected as one of the Good Food Guide’s Best Bakeries, it stands out for unique flavours, Swedish-style pastries, and seasonal ingredients you would rarely find elsewhere.
Address:
17 Ludgate Hill, Leeds LS2 7HZ
Double Eleven Cafe
Double Eleven Cafe is an independent café serving handcrafted cakes, speciality drinks, brunch, and beautifully presented desserts. I especially enjoy visiting after browsing Mondego Outlet, as their unique cake selection, decorated cheesecakes, and refined gluten-free desserts always stand out.
Address:
Unit 3 Thornton's Arcade, Leeds LS1 6LQ
BAKE
BAKE offers imaginative sweet and savoury bakes made with high-quality ingredients and generous portions. I really enjoy how creative their menu feels, with visually striking pastries that make the experience memorable for both flavour and presentation.
Address:
Unit 21, Market Hall, Vicar Ln, Leeds LS2 7HJ
Activities
Things to see & do in Leeds
Harewooud House
Harewood sits at the heart of Yorkshire, one of the Treasure Houses of England, the house was built in the 18th century and has art collections to rival the finest in the land in the setting of Yorkshire's most beautiful landscape.
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Abbey House Museum
A family-friendly museum exploring social history and childhood in Victorian era Leeds.
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Kirkstall Abbey
Kirkstall Abbey Visitor Centre tells you more about the lives of the 12th century monks and contains the touch table, a unique catalogue of images of the abbey from the 18th century to the present day.
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